LIVE LIFE BETTER Sheriff Bob Gualtieri: Tips for Keeping Kids Safe Through The School Year

Season 2 Episode 2275 · Aug 12, 10:37 PM

In this episode of LIVE LIFE BETTER, Lunchtime Conversation host Nanette Wiser shares some of the latest safety tips from Inside The Star newsletter Subscribe and stay in touch with Pinellas County Sheriff Office!
From the Desk of Sheriff Bob Gualtieri: Keep Kids Safe Through the School Year
The summer is flying by, and kids will be back in school before you know it. With most Pinellas County
schools resuming this week , now is the time for parents to think about how to keep their kids safe.
Bus Safety: At the bus stop, make sure kids know to arrive five to ten minutes early and stand at least six
feet away from the curb while waiting. They should stay back until the bus comes to a complete stop,
the door opens, and the driver signals them to board. Remind kids that it can be hard for the bus driver to
see them when they are close to the bus. If they need to cross in front of the bus, they should walk well
in front of the crossing arm that swings out from the front bumper and make eye contact with the driver
before they start to cross. Cars are supposed to stop for school buses, but kids should always look to
make sure.
Pedestrian Safety: Kids should stay on the sidewalk, and if they have to walk on the shoulder, they
should be as far as possible from vehicles. They should cross the road where there is a crossing guard
present. Follow the crossing guard’s instructions and only walk when they say it is safe. At signaled
crosswalks, they should press the button to activate the flashing lights, and then wait until all lanes of
traffic have stopped before crossing. Kids should be aware of situations where a driver might not see
them, such as when they are moving between cars, near bushes or signs, and around cars that are
backing up. If they have to walk at night, they should carry a light and wear bright or reflective clothing.
Personal Safety: Whether waiting at a bus stop or walking to school, kids should avoid interacting with
strangers. Traveling in groups can help keep kids safe. Young children should be taught to never go with
a stranger or get in their car, even if they claim to have been sent by their parents. Families should
establish a code word to use in emergencies. Let kids know that if someone approaches them in a
worrying way they should yell and run somewhere safe, and tell a trusted adult what happened. Remind
kids that they don’t have to be polite. Adults shouldn’t be asking kids for directions or help finding
missing pets. Teach kids early how to say no.
Internet Safety: Pinellas County public schools no longer allow cell phone use during class hours, but
kids will be on their devices before and after school so it is important to teach them how to be safe
online. No matter what age, parents need to keep track of their kids’ online life. Parental control apps
can prevent kids from visiting harmful sites. Remind kids that people they know only over the internet
might say they are kids but actually be adults. Let them know they should never send personal photos or
videos to anyone, or give out personal information.
Emotional Safety: Kids should never be afraid to tell their parents when something is wrong, so you
need to let them know they can come to you with anything. Be non-judgmental, ask open-ended
questions, and really listen. Be aware of emotional warning signs like withdrawing, changing habits or
friend groups, or expressions of negative self-worth.
Back to school can be an exciting time full of new possibilities for kids. Do your part to make sure they
can stay safe as they focus on learning and growth.